Minister offers hope for planning resolution

MINISTER for Environment, Phil Hogan has given a commitment to review the Code of Practice being implemented by the Environmental Protection Authority in relation to soil testing for septic tanks.

MINISTER for Environment, Phil Hogan has given a commitment to review the Code of Practice being implemented by the Environmental Protection Authority in relation to soil testing for septic tanks.

by Leonie McKiernan

Speaking exclusively with the Leitrim Observer following last Friday’s special Council meeting, Minister Hogan said he was going to review the Guidelines and the Code of Practice “against the backdrop of our obligations for Waste Water treatment” set down by the EU.

“I hope to come to a conclusion in the shortest possible period of time,” he said.

“Unfortunately we are facing a very difficult situation arising from the EU Court of Justice ruling,” he acknowledged adding that further pressure was added by last week’s announcement of an additional fine for Ireland following failure to comply.

However he acknowledged that being able to build a home in counties like Leitrim was also important for the future of rural communities and said he would be looking at the information already to hand in a bid to speed up the review.

Following the meeting, Leitrim County Council issued a statement thanking the Minister for attending, adding they were happy he had outlined his commitment to the review.

Independent councillor, Enda Stenson said he felt the meeting was “very positive”.

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